The Timeless Craft of Petrof Pianos
Few names in the piano world carry the weight of tradition and artistry quite like Petrof. Founded in 1864 by Antonín Petrof in Hradec Králové, Czech Republic, this family-owned company has been guided by six generations of passionate piano makers. What began as a small workshop behind the Cathedral of the Holy Ghost has grown into Europe’s largest piano manufacturer, exporting instruments to more than 60 countries.
A Family Legacy of Music
Antonín Petrof apprenticed in Vienna, learning the art of piano building from masters such as Heintzman, Ehrbar, and Schweighofer. He returned home to transform his father’s joinery into a piano workshop, laying the foundation for a company that would endure for over 160 years. Today, Petrof remains proudly family-run, with Zuzana Ceralová Petrofová continuing the tradition of excellence. Each generation has upheld the values of honest craftsmanship, precision, and love of music, ensuring that every Petrof piano carries the family’s name with pride.
The Piano-Making Process
Petrof pianos are renowned for their romantic, singing tone, achieved through a meticulous production process that blends tradition with innovation. Up to 80% of the work is done by hand, with skilled artisans shaping, intoning, and tuning each instrument. From carefully selected European woods to the final polish, every step reflects nearly 160 years of accumulated expertise. The process takes about nine months, and each piano leaves the factory with a “birth certificate” signed by the craftsmen who brought it to life.
This dedication results in instruments that are not only technically superb but also deeply expressive—pianos that inspire musicians and delight audiences worldwide.
Experience Petrof at Great Plains Piano Company
We are proud to feature Petrof among our collection of pianos. Whether you are a professional pianist or a passionate enthusiast, experiencing a Petrof in person is the best way to appreciate its warmth, resonance, and craftsmanship.
Contact us today to schedule your private viewing and discover the piano that speaks to your heart.
Petrof is more than a piano, it’s a living legacy of family, tradition, and artistry. Come see why generations of musicians have trusted Petrof to bring their music to life.